Mayor Tim Keller and Director Stephanie Stowell Give Update on Improvements at ABQ BioPark
GRT funds help with infrastructure upgrades, renovations and expanded exhibits; construction expedited during pandemic
April 29, 2021 - Today Mayor Tim Keller and ABQ BioPark Director Stephanie Stowell provided an update on improvements at the world-class facility. The projects include infrastructure upgrades, renovations and expanded exhibits for which construction was expedited during the pandemic.
This past fiscal year, the BioPark spent or encumbered a total of $17.4 million for necessary infrastructure and guest experience improvements.
Recent improvements made possible by the 1/8 cent gross receipts tax passed in 2016 include new concrete sidewalks at the Zoo and Botanic Garden; water and fiber optic utility expansion; HVAC upgrades; cooling towers at the Aquarium; fire alarm updates and many other infrastructure enhancements that make it possible for major expansion projects to begin in the next year.
“Our BioPark is one of the most cherished places for Albuquerque families,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “We were able to expedite major infrastructure projects here while the BioPark was closed to the public as a result of the pandemic. We’re looking forward to welcoming even more folks here soon, and to keep making this a world-class facility that our town can be proud of.”
The BioPark also made progress on even more renovations, including installing training walls that will allow zebras and caretakers to work together during health exams, repairing sidewalks at Tingley Beach, upgrading restrooms near the Zoo entrance, and converting the Zoo’s former macaw exhibit into a home for howler monkeys.
“We want to thank Albuquerque residents for their continued support,” said ABQ BioPark Director Stephanie Stowell. “Your support shows that Zoos, Aquariums and public gardens matter, and can help be your local connection to conservation and nature.”
The GRT will provide an estimated $255 million over 15 years to implement the master plan for the BioPark Zoo, Aquarium, Botanic Garden and Tingley Beach.
More details on these projects and other upgrades can be found in the full GRT report update.